Leo Schowalter

Title: Innovations of Leo Schowalter

Introduction

Leo Schowalter is an accomplished inventor based in Latham, NY (US). He has made significant contributions to the field of optical detection technology. With a total of 2 patents, Schowalter's work focuses on the interaction of light with specially engineered silicon structures.

Latest Patents

Schowalter's latest patents include an "Optical detector having a plurality of matrix layers with cobalt - Silicon and metal coevaporated onto a silicon substrate in a molecular beam epitaxy system." This innovative design allows for the epitaxial growth of metal silicide particles embedded in a matrix of single crystal silicon. The particles are engineered to interact with incident photons through resonant optical absorption at the surface plasmon resonance frequency. By controlling the substrate temperature and deposition parameters, the aspect ratio of the particles can be tailored to specific wavelengths and polarizations of light. Additionally, the energy from the plasmon may decay as excited charge carriers or phonons, which can be monitored to indicate the amount of incident radiation at the selected frequency and polarization.

Another notable patent is the "Method of forming silicon structures with selectable optical properties." This patent shares similar principles with the previous one, emphasizing the coevaporation of silicon and metal onto a silicon substrate to create functional optical structures. The ability to control various parameters during the deposition process enhances the versatility of the resulting silicon structures.

Career Highlights

Leo Schowalter has dedicated his career to advancing optical detection technologies. His innovative approaches have led to significant advancements in the field, particularly in the development of materials that enhance the interaction between light and silicon. His work has implications for various applications, including sensors and imaging technologies.

Collaborations

Schowalter has collaborated with Robert W. Fathauer, a fellow innovator in the field. Their partnership has contributed to the development of cutting-edge technologies that push the boundaries of optical detection.

Conclusion

In summary, Leo Schowalter is a notable inventor whose work in optical detection has led to significant advancements in the field. His innovative patents demonstrate a deep understanding of material science and photonics, paving the way for future developments in technology.